By SYDNEY KENT
The Bluffton Optimist Club is seeking new friendly smiles to join their service club.
Steve Higgins, president of the chapter, spoke to The News-Banner shortly after he attended a regular eye doctor appointment earlier this week.
He said that his eyes were slightly sensitive, though his sight has continued to improve since his cataract surgery. Higgins has hope that the future outlook for the Wells County chapter of the club will improve as well.
“We are struggling now because some of the older guys that have done a lot of the work in the club are having some health issues,” Higgins explained. “They can’t participate at the same level. We do a lot of good things in the community. We don’t want to give that up.”
The Wells County chapter began on May 4, 1964. Since its opening, the club has participated in, sponsored, and raised money for countless community events. Higgins said the club emphasizes programs with children.
The mission of the international organization is to provide hope and a positive vision, to bring out the best in youth, communities, and one another.
Higgins said there are groups in 28 countries with approximately 64 clubs in Indiana.
In 2023 alone, the club donated funds to the Cub Scouts of America, the summer reading program at the local library, and the Miss Wells County pageant, among others. They also invested time and care into students in multiple ways.
For example, aspiring woodworkers and musicians at Southern Wells High School were invited to present their impressive self-made guitars to the club. Students at Bluffton High School were also presented with the opportunity to compete in an essay contest about optimism.
Higgins said this important work cannot continue without the addition of new members and generations to carry on the spirit of joy. At 64-years-old, Higgins is one of the youngest members to participate.
“All ages are welcome. If you are community-minded and enjoy serving others,” Higgins said. “Then it’s right up your alley. Not all members attend every meeting, some participate in the events and fundraisers or as they can.”
He said the group recently changed their meeting time to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesdays at Hoosier House in Bluffton. They hope the new time will allow for more people to attend and learn more.
To learn more about Optimist International, interested parties may attend a weekly meeting, call 314-371-6000, or visit the organization’s website, optimist.org.
sydney@news-banner.com
